Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag descended into a fiery exchange with a journalist after Manchester United lost 2024-25 Premier League matchday three to perennial rivals Liverpool.
A clinical Liverpool side outclassed the Red Devils at Old Trafford to make it three wins out of three for Arne Slot on his debut campaign in the Premier League.
Two costly mistakes by Casemiro paved the way for the visitors to race into the lead with two quick goals by Luis Diaz. Mohamed Salah completed the rout early in the second half with a brilliant finish after a quick counter.
Erik ten Hag in a fiery exchange with a journalist after the game
After the game, Erik ten Hag vigorously defended himself, insisting all will be fine. He also tends to shift the blame to the players for the team’s poor outings. When asked what made him so confident, he questioned the journalist and double down on what he has achieved despite playing with an injury-stricken squad since last season.
He said;
”So, what do you mean? Tell me then, maybe you can explain me which mistakes we make regular?
“I don’t think otherwise we would win trophies as we did and to beat big opponents so I am sorry for you.’
”I think we won, after City, the most trophies in English football so I’m sorry for you.”
Another poor start to the season under Erik ten Hag
Erik ten Hag ended last season on a brighter note, leading Manchester United to FA Cup victory. However, it was largely a disappointing run for the Red Devils.
They finished 8th on the Premier League table and only settled for a Europa League spot after the FA Cup triumph. Now, it appears things may not turn around for good soon.
With just three matches into the season, ten Hag is coming under pressure again with his less-convincing run with Manchester United. The team opened their Premier League campaign scrappy victory over Fulham at Old Trafford.
The second match against Brighton at the Falmer Stadium ended in a 2-1 loss. Joao Pedro scored a late winner to condemn the visitors to a shock defeat. Against Liverpool at Old Trafford, the Dutch had a chance to prove his critics wrong facing a stronger opponent but failed woefully.
Notably, Manchester United have now conceded five goals in three matches, scoring only twice.
Can Erik ten Hag turn around Manchester United’s misfortunes?
The question that has been on the lips of Manchester United fans is whether Erik ten Hag is the right man for the job. The Dutch escaped sack on a slinker last season. It took a lengthy review process by United’s new management to reaffirm his position as the club’s manager.
Entering his third season with the club, the hopes are that he must have garnered enough experience and acquaintance with the squad to bring home results.
However, it appears that is not the case. There are projections the Dutch could be relieved of his role sooner if the poor start to the season continues.
What is next for Manchester United?
After the ongoing September international break, Manchester United will return to Premier League action on Saturday, September 14 at St Mary’s Stadium against Southampton.
The team is expected to wave aside the poor performance against Liverpool and return to winning ways. A draw or defeat will further pile up pressure on the Erik ten Hag.
